Unsung Heroes: Heads of Production
It’s time Heads of Production got their flowers. For those in the know—and those just finding out—being a HOP is a job that seems to cover everything. And that’s not far from the truth.
At any moment, HOPs are refining production guidelines, managing teams, troubleshooting with freelancers, tracking union and guild contracts, working with accounting, researching new jobs, and driving the bidding process. And that’s just a slice of the workload. Without them, a production company wouldn’t function.
The job has its rewards, but it’s also relentless. HOPs often go uncredited, and when multiple projects hit at once, the workload can become overwhelming. That’s where SYZYGY comes in. We’d never replace your trusted HOP, but we can take the less glamorous tasks off their plate—freeing them up to win new work and stay hands-on where it matters most.
Here’s how we can help:
Stay compliant with labor laws. On-set behavior and production standards are constantly shifting with labor laws, unions, and guilds. We track those moving pieces, so you don’t have to.
File CPLF with the DGA. Every job needs a Commercial Project Listing Form filed with the Director’s Guild. Rather focus on production than paperwork? We’ve got it covered.
Identify budget profit/loss. We analyze actualized budgets so HOPs can focus on execution while still getting key financial insights.
Coordinate releases. Locations, talent, artwork—legal agreements are a must. We ensure all the right signatures are in place.
Provide a second set of eyes. Whether reviewing bid packages or insurance policies, we offer expert-level support—beyond what junior assistants can provide.
So let’s toast to the HOPs—the unsung heroes keeping productions running and creative visions alive. They do it all, but they don’t have to do it alone. SYZYGY is here to lighten the load, streamline the process, and let HOPs focus on making great work happen.
Let’s give them the credit—and breathing room—they deserve. Ready to take something off
their plate? Let’s talk.